Atlanta is far more than a tourist destination. It is an important and sacred place in the history of civil rights. It is a transportation hub and is notorious for having the busiest airport in the world. Additionally, Atlanta is known for its culinary scene with a variety of delicious food and dining options. This travel guide will feature all of the best things to do, see, and eat in Atlanta.
When To Go
The best times to visit Atlanta are the spring, fall, and early winter months. The temperature and humidity can reach uncomfortable in the late spring and summer months. We ventured to Atlanta in May during Memorial Day weekend. Honestly, the weather was GREAT! It was cool in the morning and evening hours and warm during the day.
what to do and see
Peachtree Trolley Tour
This was one of our favorite Atlanta activities. This 90-minute narrated trolley tour takes visitors around the most popular destinations in Atlanta including the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Atlanta Beltline, MLK National Park, and the Fox Theatre. You should purchase your tickets ahead of time as tours often sell out in advance. Visit the Peachtree Trolley Tour website for more information and booking.
Georgia Aquarium
Being that it is the world’s largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium stands apart from all other aquariums. With more than 11 million gallons of water and over 100,000 animals, there is so much to see and do here. Permanent exhibits showcase sharks, sea lions, dolphins, puffins, belugas, penguins, otters, turtles, and so much more. One of the most popular exhibits is Ocean Voyager, which houses two rescued whale sharks, manta rays, and several other aquatic animals. This exhibit allows visitors to venture through a 100-foot-long tunnel with views of the aquatic life on all sides. The giant acrylic viewing window at the end of the exhibit presents a floor-to-ceiling look at the entire tank.
Several free shows are offered daily and can be reserved on the day of the visit, either by booking online or by using one of the kiosks in the aquarium. A short but informative behind-the-scenes tour is also available for an additional charge. General admission tickets are reduced priced if purchased online. Try to go as early as possible to avoid the massive crowds that visit the aquarium.
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
This powerful and educational museum provides a deep inside look into the history of the civil rights movement and global human rights efforts. The exhibits feature hands-on interactive displays that bring visitors into the experience. One of the most powerful exhibits is the lunch counter sit-in, which simulates the Freedom Riders’ protests. You should plan for at least 90 minutes to explore the museum. For more information about the museum and to purchase tickets, visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights website.
World of Coca-Cola
The World of Coca-Cola is one of the most popular attractions in Atlanta. The day that we were in the area, the line to enter the museum was incredibly long. Visitors can sample a variety of beverages, experience the scent discovery lab, enter the secret formula vault, and get a behind-the-scenes look at the bottling process. You can purchase your tickets ahead of time by visiting the World of Coca-Cola website.
Martin Luther King Junior National Historic Site and Birth Home
At this site, you can take a guided tour of the home where Dr. King was born and lived for the first 12 years of his life. Other highlights include the Visitor Center, World Peace Rose Garden, Fire Station No. 6, Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, and The King Center. Thirty-minute guided tours of Dr. King’s birth home are available Monday through Saturday between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. The tours are filled on a first-come, first-served basis by signing up on the day of the tour at the visitor center. For more information, visit the national park service website.
Atlanta Botanical Gardens
The beautiful and serene Atlanta Botanical Gardens provides visitors with an enchanted walk through shady woodlands and display gardens. Highlights include the interactive children’s garden, a hardwood forest with walking trails, a conservatory with flora from tropical and desert climates, an award-winning orchard center, and a canopy walk. For more information and booking, visit the Atlanta Botanical Gardens website.
Fox Theatre
The inside of Fox Theatre is stunningly beautiful, complete with a Trompe L’oeill ceiling that simulates moving clouds and twinkling stars. Originally built in 1929, it is a National Historic Landmark. The Fox Theatre presents Broadway plays, music, and movies. Visitors can learn more about the history of the theatre by taking a guided tour. For more information, and booking, visit the Fox Theatre website.
Piedmont Park
Piedmont Park is the playground of Atlanta. Highlights include walking and biking trails, playgrounds, dog parks, sports facilities, and food vendors. There is a splash pad in the summer and ice skating in the winter. Piedmont Park is an excellent picnic spot with plenty of green grass and beautiful skyline views of downtown Atlanta.
Ponce City Market
One of Atlanta’s favorite gathering places, Ponce City Market offers delicious dining options, incredible views of Atlanta’s skyline, and trendy shops to explore. There is even a carnival on the roof featuring boardwalk-style games and mini golf. With holiday events and celebrations scheduled throughout the year, Ponce City Market is an impressive venue to visit.
Stone Mountain Park
Visitors can hike or ride the cable car up to the summit of Stone Mountain for incredible views of downtown Atlanta and the North Georgia mountains. The popular hiking trail is a short (2.2 miles) but challenging hike, with steep inclines and rocky terrain. Alternatively, visitors can take a high-speed Swiss cable car to the summit of Stone Mountain. The park gates are typically open from 5:00 A.M. to midnight and cost $20 for a parking pass. Stone Mountain Park is about 20 miles south of Atlanta.
Downtown Marietta
Historic and charming downtown Marietta is worth the side trip from Atlanta. The town is complete with shops, dining, and entertainment. We booked a walking ghost tour with Tours of Marietta. In addition to hearing spooky tales, we were able to take in the sights and learn more about the rich history of Marietta. Tours of Marietta also offers food and history tours.
Where to eat
Poor Calvin’s – A boutique restaurant in downtown Atlanta that offers Asian-inspired cuisine mixed with southern comfort. Reviews on Yelp and Trip Advisor praise Poor Calvin’s for its delicious food items and attentive service. The lobster fried rice is a favorite among patrons. Reservations are highly recommended.
South City Kitchen Midtown – This restaurant serves southern classics with a sophisticated twist and is located in a historic bungalow in the heart of Midtown Atlanta. Guests love South City Kitchen Midtown for its amazing food offerings and service. Popular food items include buttermilk fried chicken, fried green tomatoes, she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, and banana pudding. Reservations are highly recommended.
Atlanta Breakfast Club – One of the most popular breakfast spots in Atlanta known for delicious southern fare and excellent service. Expect to wait for a table, especially on the weekends. A live DJ and mimosa truck will keep you entertained while you wait for a table. Some popular menu items include chicken and waffles, peach cobbler french toast, and crispy chicken biscuits.
The Vortex Bar and Grill – This award-winning restaurant is known for having the best burgers in Atlanta, eclectic and colorful décor, and great service. Visitors must be 21 and up to enter.
Antico Pizza – This is hands down the best Italian pizza we have ever had in America. With fresh ingredients and a perfectly cooked pizza crust, your taste buds will thank you for this one.
The Garden Room – This enchanting, Instagram-worthy spot is known for impressive cocktails and attentive service. Patrons of the restaurant are expected to adhere to a dress code. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made a month in advance.
Atlanta Travel itinerary
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